Roldan: Facing Messi Elevates Seattle Sounders’ Leagues Cup Final

Seattle Sounders enter the Leagues Cup final with a sense of anticipation, as midfielder Cristian Roldan declared, “Playing against Messi adds magnitude” to the highly anticipated matchup against Inter Miami. This showdown, set for September 1, presents a historic opportunity for the Sounders to claim their 14th title and cement their status among North America’s elite clubs.

Roldan Ready for Messi Challenge

Seattle Sounders’ talisman Cristian Roldan emphasized the heightened stakes surrounding the final, noting, “Any time you play against Lionel Messi, it’s a moment that will be remembered. Our team is ready to embrace the moment and show what we’re capable of.” The U.S. international, known for his big-game mentality, made it clear that the Sounders respect the challenge ahead but are determined not to be overawed by Miami’s star power.

Sounders Set Sights on 14th Club Title

For Seattle, this final is more than just another match—it’s a chance to add to their trophy cabinet. Having last tasted silverware in the 2022 CONCACAF Champions Cup, the Sounders are hungry for another major honor. Coach Brian Schmetzer highlighted the significance of the occasion, stating, “Facing a team with Messi and Suárez is a unique challenge, but we’ve prepared all year for moments like this.”

Key Threats: Not Just Messi and Suárez

While the spotlight naturally falls on Lionel Messi, Roldan cautioned his teammates against overlooking other key players. “Rodrigo De Paul is another player who can change the game in an instant,” he warned, urging focus and collective effort. The Sounders’ ability to manage all of Inter Miami’s attacking threats will be crucial to their hopes of victory.

Embracing the Spotlight in the Leagues Cup Final

The Leagues Cup has already delivered unforgettable moments, and this final promises to be another. Roldan is confident that the Sounders have the experience and composure to rise to the occasion. “We’ve played in big finals before. The energy and motivation are there, and we’re ready to play our game,” he added.

Schmetzer’s Plan: Stopping World-Class Talent

Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer is no stranger to high-pressure fixtures, having guided Seattle to multiple trophies in recent years. “Messi and Suárez require a collective defensive effort,” Schmetzer explained. “We need to stay compact and disciplined, but also trust in our attacking abilities.”

Historic Night Awaits

With over a decade of sustained success, Seattle’s fanbase expects nothing less than a full-throttle performance. The club’s ambition is clear: to make history once again. For those following football’s biggest stories, visit for more news.

Opinion: Sounders Must Balance Respect and Belief

There’s no question that facing Messi magnifies the challenge, but Seattle Sounders’ blend of experience and hunger positions them well. If they can balance respect for Inter Miami’s talent with belief in their own system, the Sounders have every chance to lift the Leagues Cup and extend their legacy.